It’s been a disastrous 2017 for Liverpool so far as Jürgen Klopp’s side have had a massive dip in form. The year 2016 ended on a real high as they beat Manchester City but they simply haven’t been consistent enough through the 90 minutes in games this month. Last weekend’s defeat to Swansea City was a chastening experience for the fans and they’ll hope that the team is focussed for the second leg of the semi-final clash against Southampton in the EFL Cup.
Liverpool were lucky to leave St Mary’s with just a one-goal defeat as Southampton had chances to bury the game. The team simply failed to click and the Saints found time and space on the counter to which Liverpool’s leaky defence had no answer.
Jürgen Klopp has an incredible record in semi-finals and his side are very much in it. Southampton won’t be easy to stop, however, as they have picked up their game of late and beat last season’s League champions Leicester City in convincing fashion this weekend.
Jürgen Klopp doesn’t have the biggest of squads and with games coming in thick and fast, the problems might get compounded unless he adds a few fresh faces. Here’s the team that could face Southampton on Wednesday.
Defence
Alberto Moreno could get a start at left-back after getting some action in Liverpool’s u23 game. Joel Matip too appeared in the game but we expect Ragnar Klavan and Dejan Lovren to continue their partnership at the back. Matip could be saved for the FA Cup clash instead, although the game against Southampton is a bigger one. Trent Alexander-Arnold could start as the right-back. Loris Karius will resume his cup keeper duties.
Midfield
Jordan Henderson had an erratic game against Swansea City and is expected to redeem himself against Southampton. He is likely to be supported by Gini Wijnaldum and Adam Lallana in the midfield who will provide the energy and creativity. Emre Can has been running around like a headless chicken since his return from injury and it’s about time Klopp drops his compatriot who simply doesn’t deserve a place in the team based on current form.
Attack
Philippe Coutinho had another start but was a bit rusty and understandably so. He’s expected to start on the left. Roberto Firmino had a good game against Swansea and his two goals nearly salvaged a draw for Liverpool. Divock Origi is expected to start on the right and his pace and energy will be useful in stretching a good Southampton defence.
